When designing your home’s exterior, you have several big-picture decisions to consider: Do you want a traditional or contemporary style? What colour should the siding be? What type of roofing material makes sense for your climate?
One important detail that can help boost your home’s curb appeal and overall value is paving a driveway to your property.
Paving your driveway isn’t just about looking after your property — it can also increase its value. Your driveway is one of the main visual elements in front of your home that makes the home stand apart. If you pay special attention to the paving by choosing high-quality materials and a timeless style, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
In this guide, we'll explore how paving your driveway can boost your home value. So, without further ado, let's jump right in!
Benefits of Paving a Driveway
Paving is the most direct way to enhance the beauty of your home, which also comes with several benefits. First, it provides more appeal and functionality to your property. It will also protect certain areas of your property and keep dirt, mud and grime off the grass that grows on it.
The value that a well-maintained driveway adds to your home often outweighs the costs. Some experts project that a well-paved driveway can expect a return on investment from anywhere between 20% and 50%.
In contrast, an unpleasant and poorly maintained driveway can detract from your home value. A driveway filled with cracks and peeling paint is often an indication of the type of upkeep a home receives, which can be a major turn-off for potential buyers.
Residential Paving Materials
Depending on the condition of your driveway, material used, and size of the project, the cost to pave a driveway can range between $2.5 - $5 per square foot. However, there are ways to save money on your project. One of the best ways to estimate the cost of the project is by selecting a paving material.
There are three primary types of driveway material: asphalt, poured concrete, and exposed aggregate.
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt driveways are a popular option among many homeowners. It tends to be the cheapest material for a driveway and provides a durable surface for parking your vehicles. These driveways offer a timeless aesthetic with a slick black surface. In addition to that, they are quite easy to maintain in winter.
However, they also have a shorter lifespan and require resurfacing every few years.
Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are a popular option among homeowners, especially because of their low maintenance and durability. They are durable enough to last for many years and look great for most of that time. In addition, concrete is easier to keep clean than other types of paving materials such as asphalt. However, it is important to note that these types of driveways tend to be more expensive to install.
Exposed Aggregate Driveways
An exposed aggregate is another type of driveway material that uses finely ground stone as the surface material. A driveway that has been constructed using exposed aggregate is a great choice for people who enjoy the natural, rustic look. These stone materials often do not require a sealer or paint to give them a finished and polished look, which is a real plus if you’re looking for a low-maintenance driveway. In addition to being very durable, an exposed aggregate driveway has slip-resistant qualities that are not found in many other types of materials.
If you'd like the advantages of concrete without the price tag, this can be a good option to consider.
Looking to Upgrade Your Driveway in Lower Mainland?
Your driveway is a key component of curb appeal — and the easiest aesthetic feature to upgrade. As you can see, paving a driveway can be an excellent investment for your home. All you have to do is decide what material fits your budget and style choice. From there, find a reliable paving contractor to install the driveway and upgrade the look of your home.
If you live in Delta or Lower Mainland, consider our services today! Here at Elite Paving Ltd., we offer affordable rates and a variety of paving solutions. Get in touch with us for a free quote!